Bobby Messano & NBO - Dominion Road (1998)

Bobby Messano spent several years as a sideman before making his debut as a leader in 1998 with Dominion Roads. recorded with his supporting band NBO (New Blues Orchestra), the record is an engaging set of contemporary blues-rock. Most impressively, Messano has written or co-written 11 of the 12 songs on the record, and even if they don't jump out and grab you by the collar, they're sturdy and entertaining. Occasionally, the production is too slick, but it matches Messano's style -- he's classy, sophisticated and maybe a bit too well-scrubbed, but that just means he wants you to feel comfortable and welcome. And Dominion Roads certainly is an inviting, welcome debut.